The Allahabad High Court has stayed the recovery of ₹6.41 crore in damages related to the demolition of a mosque located within the Saharanpur district collectorate office premises. The mosque was demolished on September 5 amid heavy police deployment, sparking legal proceedings. The court has sought a response from the Uttar Pradesh government regarding the matter, according to livemint.com.
The demolition took place under tight security, with Archaeological Survey of India officials inspecting the site following the event. During the demolition drive, an ancient brick-lined well was discovered within the collectorate complex. The court's stay on the damage recovery came as part of ongoing litigation challenging the demolition, with the government required to submit its reply to the court's notice.
This case highlights tensions surrounding religious structures and government actions in Uttar Pradesh, a state with a history of communal disputes. The ₹6.41 crore damages were ordered as compensation for the mosque's destruction, reflecting the legal system's role in addressing property and religious rights. The involvement of the Archaeological Survey of India also underscores the heritage concerns linked to the site.
The next procedural step involves the Uttar Pradesh government submitting its reply to the Allahabad High Court. The stay on the ₹6.41 crore damages remains in effect until the court decides on the matter, as reported by livemint.com.